5 Best Salad Spinners for Microgreens
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Eating fresh, crisp microgreens is a treat for any salad lover. However, washing and properly drying microgreens can be a tedious process without the right tools. This is where investing in a good salad spinner comes in handy.
A salad spinner is an essential tool for anyone who grows or enjoys microgreens. Using centrifugal force, a salad spinner efficiently removes excess water from greens after washing, preventing sogginess and spoilage while maintaining texture and freshness.
With a multitude of models on the market sporting different features, finding the perfect salad spinner for your needs can get overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will discuss what to look for when buying a salad spinner for microgreens and provide recommendations of top models based on testing and research.
Why Use a Salad Spinner for Microgreens?
Microgreens are tiny, delicate greens that pack a nutritional punch despite their size. However, their small size also makes them prone to spoilage if not handled properly. Washing microgreens to remove dirt and debris is essential, but allowing moisture to remain on the leaves leads to quick molding and decay.
This is where an efficient salad spinner comes in. A good salad spinner uses centrifugal force to effectively remove excess water from washed microgreens. With less moisture remaining on the leaves, microgreens dry faster, stay fresh longer, and avoid rotting.
Other benefits of using a salad spinner for microgreens include:
- Saves time compared to towel drying
- Removes hidden dirt and debris
- Maintains texture and crunchiness
- Allows better adherence of dressings
- Functions as a wash basin and colander
Whether you are a small-scale microgreen grower or an avid salad maker, investing in a quality salad spinner is a decision you won’t regret.
What to Look for in a Salad Spinner for Microgreens
With a wide variety of salad spinners available, deciding on the right one for your needs boils down to a few key factors:
Size and Capacity
One of the top considerations when purchasing a salad spinner is checking that its capacity suits your needs. Salad spinners range in capacity from about 2-7 quarts. Consider how many microgreens you wash at one time to determine the right size.
For home growers with small productions or occasional use, a 3-4 quart spinner works well. However, medium-scale productions and salad lovers may need a larger 5-6 quart model.
Additionally, keep in mind that overstuffing a spinner hampers its efficiency. Leaving some room for the microgreens to spin freely ensures proper drying.
Ease of Use
No one wants to struggle with kitchen tools, so opt for an intuitive, easy-to-use salad spinner. Most models utilize either a hand-crank, push-button, or pull-cord mechanism to operate the spinning function.
Push-button mechanisms require the least effort to operate while achieving a fast, smooth spin. Crank and pull-cord mechanisms work but may strain your wrist. Also useful is an easy-to-use brake function to stop the spinning immediately when desired.
Durability
Buy a salad spinner made of durable materials that will last through regular use. Most boast BPA-free plastic construction with some featuring stainless steel bowls for added sturdiness.
The spinning mechanism, bowl, basket, and lids should all feel sturdy and withstand vigorous washing. Also, check for non-slip plastic or rubberized bases that lend stability while spinning and protect countertops from scuffs.
Easy Cleaning
Salad spinners house many nooks where microgreen bits and debris can accumulate. Opt for models with simple, detachable lid pieces and colanders with large, evenly spaced holes that easily release particles.
Check that all components are top-rack dishwasher safe or easily hand washable. Materials like silicone and plastic clean up better compared to porous materials like bamboo.
Our Comparision Chart For The Top 5 Spinners for Microgreens
| Model | Capacity | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner | 6.2 quart bowl 4.95-quart basket | Push button operation Brake button Non-slip ring | Easy one-handed use Efficient drying Dishwasher safe | Bulky storage |
| Zyliss Easy Spin Salad Spinner | 5 quart | Pedal operation Brake button | Great drying power Affordable price | Gears may wear out |
| Progressive International Salad Spinner | 3 quart | Collapsible Twist knob operation | Space saving Multipurpose | No brake Two-handed operation |
| Mueller Salad Spinner | 5 liter (5.3 quart) | Pull lever operation Brake button | Large capacity Sturdy construction | Heavy Space consuming |
| Prepworks Salad Spinner | 4 quart | Collapsible Twist knob operation | Collapsible Budget-friendly | Small batches only No brake |
Top 5 Best Salad Spinners for Microgreens
After extensive testing and research, these salad spinners emerged as the top picks for washing microgreens:
1. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
With its stellar reputation, it is no surprise that the OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner tops the list for the best salad spinner for microgreens.
This versatile model features a generously sized bowl with a 6.2 quart capacity and a 4.95 quart basket perfect for most home or small business needs. The innovative brake button and push-button spinning mechanism allow for one-handed operation and precise control.
We found this salad spinner extremely efficient at drying a variety of microgreens while protecting delicate leaves and stems from damage. It has a wide base and non-slip ring that stabilizes it during vigorous spinning sessions.
Both the plastic bowl and basket clean up beautifully in the dishwasher. The two-part lid and accessible openings easily release all trapped particles too. An overall stellar performer!
Pros: Easy one-handed use, large capacity, efficient drying, non-slip base, dishwasher safe Cons: Bulky for storage
[Buy the OXO Grips Salad Spinner Here]
2. Zyliss Easy Spin Salad Spinner
For an affordably priced workhorse, the Zyliss Easy Spin Salad Spinner delivers efficient drying power. This compact model takes up minimal countertop real estate but its smartly designed basket still accommodates about 5 quarts of microgreens.
The pedal-operated spinning mechanism generates plenty of speed and force to dry a batch of microgreens in under 30 seconds! Simply depress the foot pedal to engage the smooth spin then press the brake button when finished. Easy to operate and user-friendly.
While mostly plastic, the Zyliss Easy Spin feels sturdily constructed to withstand frequent use. All components clean up nicely in the dishwasher too. Just beware that the spinning mechanism may wear out eventually. Otherwise, excellent value for money!
Pros: Great drying power, affordable price, pedal operation, brake button
Cons: Gears may strip over time
[Buy the Zyliss Easy Spin Salad Spinner Here]
3. Progressive International Salad Spinner
If storage space is limited, the creatively designed Progressive International Salad Spinner provides a stellar space-saving solution without compromising efficiency.
Despite a 3-quart capacity, testing showed this model capably handled washing and drying microgreens meant for a family salad. The silicone and plastic construction feels reassuringly sturdy but weighs under 2 pounds.
The true ingenuity lies in its ability to collapse to a quarter of its full size! Once done spinning microgreens or lettuce, simply fold up the plastic bowl and silicone basket before stashing away in a cabinet or drawer. It even doubles as a serving bowl in a pinch!
A manual twist knob provides the spinning force. While effective, the operation takes both hands and lacks a brake button. However, its compact and innovative collapsible design more than makes up for this.
Pros: Collapsible, multipurpose, BPA-free plastic
Cons: No brake, two-handed operation
[Buy the Progressive International Salad Spinner Here]
4. Mueller Salad Spinner
Boasting commercial-grade quality, the Mueller Salad Spinner proves a workhorse in home kitchens. Made entirely of thick, heavy-duty plastic, this large 5-liter model resists cracks or leaks even with regular use.
Despite its sizable bowl and basket capacity, operation remains easily managed by a single person. Simply pull out the basket’s lever arm to engage the smooth spin then press the responsive brake button to stop. Testers found it effectively dried all microgreens in under a minute without crush injuries.
While on the heavier side, the Mueller Salad Spinner offers long-lasting quality and efficient drying power. All components easily detach for fuss-free cleaning too. An excellent choice for large-scale productions and salad lovers!
Pros: Sturdy construction, large capacity, powerful spin
Cons: Heavy, takes up space
[Buy the Mueller Salad Spinner Here]
5. Prepworks Salad Spinner
Green thumbs with limited kitchen space should consider the clever Prepworks Salad Spinner. Like the Progressive International model, this spinner collapses to a fraction of its full 4-quart size for compact storage.
Made entirely of BPA-free plastic, the bowl and collapsible basket adapt to holding 3 quarts of microgreens or lettuce leaves. The twist-knob operation smoothly generates enough spinning force to adequately dry greens but lacks a brake button.
While testing showed dried greens still benefitted from a bit of towel drying, this versatile spinner pulls double duty for washing produce and space-saving. Best matched to small-scale use rather than heavy-duty demands. But its innovative and economical design still outshines many standard models.
Pros: Collapsible, multipurpose, budget-friendly
Cons: Cannot handle large batches, no brake
[Buy the Prepworks Salad Spinner Here]
Salad Spinner Mechanisms
Understanding the different spinning mechanisms used to operate various salad spinner models allows for choosing one best suited to your needs and abilities. Here is an overview of common salad spinner mechanisms:
Push Button Mechanism
Regarded as the easiest salad spinner mechanism to operate, push-button models require simply depressing a button to initiate the smooth spinning motion. The spin speed can be controlled by pressure applied to the button. Once released, the spinning will gradually cease.
Pros
- Little physical effort or strain on hands/wrists
- Allow one-handed operation
- Generate a fast, consistent spin
- Compatible with brake button for instant stop
Cons
- Buttons may wear out over time
- Spin relies on battery or electricity
Best for those who desire easy, efficient speed control with minimal labor. Electric pump models are very user-friendly.
Pull Cord Mechanism
Found in more classic style salad spinners, pull cord mechanisms operate by continuously pulling outwards on a cord or rope to drive the spinning. This manual operation relies solely on upper body strength and stamina.
Pros
- Do not require batteries or electricity
- Provide a good workout
Cons
- Can strain hands, wrists, and arms
- Cord may fray over time
- Difficult to generate much speed
- No braking mechanism
Best for eco-conscious consumers or those wanting an arm workout!
Crank Handle Mechanism
Crank handle spinners utilize a rotating arm or crank that rotates to manually cause spinning. This rotary crank system relies on gear tension and grip strength to function.
Pros
- Do not require batteries
- Provides added exercise
Cons
- Can strain hands and wrists over time
- Calls for two-handed operation
- Gears may eventually fail
- Provides less spin control
Best for green-minded consumers willing to trade convenience for an eco-friendly operation.
Pedal Mechanism
Pedal-powered spinners operate via a pump pedal depressed by the foot to initiate the smooth spin. This hands-free mechanism allows both hands to hold the bowl while pedaling drives the spinning with your lower body.
Pros
- Hands-free operation
- Generates plenty of spin speed and force
- Fun to use!
Cons
- Gears tend to wear out
- Poorly designed pedals cramp feet
Best for busy cooks who desire the benefits of a hands-free salad spinner operated by foot pedal.
Factors that Impact Spin Performance
A salad spinner’s spinning prowess plays the biggest role in properly drying those microgreens. Here are key design factors that influence spin power and efficiency:
Size of Holes
The pattern, size, and amount of holes in the inner colander basket hugely impact both water drainage and air circulation of the microgreens. Optimum drying calls for uniformly spaced holes at least 1⁄8″ wide cut into the sides and base of the basket. Size and shape may vary – circles, diamonds, or mesh.
Width of Base
A wider spinner base width lends crucial stability while spinning to prevent rocking, slipping, or movement. A non-slip ring or rubber feet further improve sturdiness. Wider bases keep bowls centered during the spinning cycles.
Material Quality
Durable materials like BPA-free plastic and stainless steel stand up to frequent use without cracking or failing. Check that key components like bowls, baskets, lids, gears, buttons, and pedals fit securely in place while allowing smooth spinning.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Like any frequently used kitchen tool, following proper maintenance best practices helps a salad spinner function optimally for years to come:
- Allow all components to air dry fully prior to storage or reassembly to prevent molding
- Detach lid pieces and dislodge particles caught in openings
- For stubborn particles, occasionally deep clean the inner basket and gears using vinegar or lemon juice mixed with baking soda
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for whether dishwasher safe or hand wash only
- Replace damaged components like gears, push buttons, or brake buttons as needed
- Apply vegetable oil to lubricate pedals or gears exhibiting stiffness or sluggish spinning
- Tighten or replace rubber feet if the base slips
Consistently following a regular cleaning regimen helps eliminate hidden bacteria for safer microgreens and extends a salad spinner’s functionality.
Tips for Using a Salad Spinner for Microgreens
Once you purchase that perfect salad spinner for your microgreens, put it to optimal use with these pro tips:
- Rinse microgreens first to dislodge and remove excess dirt
- For heavier soiling, soak microgreens in cold water for 5 minutes before spinning
- Only fill the basket halfway while spinning delicate microgreens
- Spin microgreens in smaller batches to increase drying effectiveness
- Pat excess moisture with a cloth before refrigerating or serving
- Allow just-spun microgreens to air dry for 10-15 minutes more before storage
- Use the salad spinner bowl to combine, toss, and serve mixed green salads
Properly preparing batches of crisp, fresh microgreens takes finesse. Finding an easy-to-use salad spinner matching your scale of production will save time and effort for even better-tasting greens and salads.
Treat your new salad spinner well for an appliance that will prove a welcome kitchen necessity for years of tangy, nourishing microgreen enjoyment!
